By Odey Ojeka
No fewer than 200 freshmen were administered the oath to be law abiding students and formally welcomed into the Institute of Technology and Management, Ugep on Saturday during its fourth matriculation ceremony.
Popularly referred to as “Ugep Poly” during its early days, the institution has had very few secondary school leavers seeking for admission in the courses offered.
But, the Rector, Dr. Jeffrey K. Thompson during his address at the event said the matriculants are spread across 10 departments and stressed that the institution remains hinged on its core values.
“I congratulate the matriculating students. Today we are matriculating students in the following courses Accountancy, Architecture, Business Administration and management, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Hospital leisure and tourism management, Mass Communication and Public Administration.
“Today, we celebrate the three core values of ITM knowledge,initiative and excellence. Members of our Community are law abiding and work in synergy with this values. Today we are matriculating the highest number of students in ITM. We are now ready to grow and ready to take over the architecturally designed iconic Signature building. This will offer Nigerians the best educational experience. It is an environment our students deserve.
“Students, you will take an oath of allegiance to the institution which gives you the full membership of our Community. But more importantly, you and you alone will take responsibility for your learning. As a full member of this community, you will now continue to maintain the peace in our community. You will pay the required fees, you will support your colleagues and your staff. You need to maintain the status quo. And you need to tidy your room and support the works department,” he said.
The institution which began under the administration of Governor Liyel Imoke with political watchers claiming it was a gift to the late monarch, Obol Ubi Ujong Inah is still replete with uncompleted structures.
And, Inah’s successor and Obol lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Ubana in his speech, called on the Cross River State Government to complete the Signature Block before the next Matriculation ceremony.
“I am really happy to be here because the School is growing. We need more to be done. It is because of this signature block that made us vote Governor Ayade. Please Secretary (to the State Government) tell Governor Ayade to try and complete the Signature Block before next Matriculation ceremony. We love Governor Ben Ayade because he is governor talk and do,” the monarch said.
The SSG, Mrs. Tina Agbor who represented Governor Ben Ayade noted that the number of matriculating students has increased and assured them the school signature project will be completed.
“Today is another day of history making. I was here last year and this year the number of matriculating students has increased. I will take all the messages of Obol lopon to the Governor.And it shall come to pass, this signature project will completed,” she said.
The institution also awarded Dr. Abayomi Adeleye; Dr. Omini Eteng; Arc. James Onun Ikpi; Dr. Diana Abubakar; Mr. Ubi Onen and Chief Margaret Bassey for their humanitarian services.
The event was attended by family, friends and well wishers of the matriculants as well as notable government functionaries including the Commissioner of Education, Mr. Godwin Ettah.
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